Mio Technology intros four new Moov GPS models

Mio Technology unveiled four new models to its Moov line of portable navigation devices at CES 2009, along with an improved software platform called Mio Spirit.

Calling 2009 a "watershed year for Mio," the GPS manufacturer debuted the Mio Moov S300, Mio Moov S500, Mio Moov S556, and Mio Moov S700, which will all come preloaded with the Mio Spirit navigation software. The revamped interface was designed to simplify map views and searches, including those for points of interest and other key navigation tools. Responding to customer feedback, the new search capabilities make it easier to search for POI close to your current location, destination, or along your route. Mio has also increased the POI database to include 12 million entries.

As far as the individual products, here's a breakdown of what each has to offer. All models are expected to ship during the first half of 2009.

Mio Moov S300: The entry-level Moov S300 features a 3.5-inch touch screen and comes preloaded with maps of the United States and Canada. Text-to-speech functionality is also available in English, Spanish, and French. The S300 will cost $199.99.

Mio Moov S500 has a 4.7-inch touch screen.
Mio

Mio Moov S500: The $249.99 Moov S500 offers all the same features as the S300 but bumps up the screen size to 4.7 inches.

Mio Moov S556: A bit more on the high end, the Moov S556 sports a sleeker design and a flat 4.7-inch touch screen. The core features are the same as the previously mentioned models, but you also get integrated Bluetooth, lane guidance, and 3D junction view, which will present realistic 3D views of major roads and signs. Suggested retail price is $299.99.

Mio Moov S700: Last but not least, the Moov S700 is designed for campers and RVs and comes equipped with an extra-large 7-inch touch screen and MAD Maps, which offer scenic routes. It also comes preloaded with maps of North America and 12 million points of interest. The Moov S700 is priced at $299.99.